PROBATE

We can help you through this difficult process by obtaining the Grant of Probate and administering the Estate on your behalf. Our fees below include:

• taking your instructions
• investigating and obtaining full details of the assets and liabilities in the estate
• completing the Inland Revenue probate forms
• making the application for the Grant of Probate
• the costs of collecting in or transferring all the assets including the sale or transfer of any property
• paying the liabilities of the Estate
• obtaining details and appropriate identification documentation of all legatees and beneficiaries
• paying out the Estate in accordance with the Will or (if there is no Will) the Statutory Rules of Intestacy

We base our costs on the Law Society guidelines of 0.75% of a property and 1.5% of any other assets. We keep time records so the exact cost will depend on the individual circumstances of the matter. In accordance with these guidelines, the cost of the majority of Estates managed falls between 1% and 3% of the gross estate. Our fees are subject to VAT at 20%.

Sometimes unexpected issues may arise during the administration of the Estate and these may increase our costs. For example, we may be required to document any variations in the terms of the Will or there may be claim made against the Estate. Should such an event occur then we will confirm the increased cost with you before proceeding with any related work.

In addition to our costs, there are a number of disbursements to pay. Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. Examples of common disbursements during the administration of an Estate are:

• Probate application fee of approx. £300
• Additional copies of the Grant at £1.50 each
• If there is a property, a copy of the up to date Title Deeds at £10.20 per property
• Bankruptcy searches fee of £3.30 per beneficiary
• Statutory Notices in the London Gazette and a local newspaper – approximate cost £400.
• AML £7.20

These protect against unexpected claims from unknown creditors.

How Long Will it Take?

It is very difficult to predict exactly how long the administration of an Estate will take as each Estate differs in complexity. As previously stated unexpected issues may arise during the administration that may result in delays.

We always aim to complete the administration of the Estate as soon as possible and in particular within the Executors year, which is one year from the date of death. We will give you a time estimate during our first meeting based on the information you provide to us and will keep you updated throughout the process.

The solicitor and Partner at our Sunbury office who specialises in the administration of Estates is Susan Webster she is assisted by Emily Claxton. Other members of staff assist in the administration of Estates department where required.

We currently assist a wide range of clients with regard to the following

• Wills and Inheritance Tax Planning
• General, Enduring and Lasting Powers of Attorney
• Deputyship
• Probate and Estate Management

We pride ourselves on providing quality advice in a sensitive manner. We are currently advising a wide variety of clients with regard to issues such as tax efficient Wills, Deeds of Variation, making and registering Lasting Powers of Attorney, registering Enduring Powers of Attorney, applying for Deputyship Orders and the administration of Estates.

We understand that sometimes clients are unable to travel to us for health reasons or they feel more comfortable in a familiar environment. We therefore offer home visits as well as appointments at our office.